Why Go to Durango?

Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more information about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

Durango is pure fun. The town is delightful and reminiscent of the Old West. It is perhaps best utilized as a gateway for the exploration of southwestern Colorado, especially Mesa Verde National Park and the San Juan Skyway, a glorious scenic route into the San Juan Mountains. Include Durango in your Colorado itinerary for at least the following reasons:

1. The architecture of Durango suggests the classic Old West. One can envision the town’s oldest hotel as a western saloon.

Strater Hotel, Durango

Strater Hotel, Durango

2. Drive or ride the rails through the San Juan Mountains for incredible mountain scenery.

Red Mountain

Red Mountain

3. Mesa Verde which contains America’s premier Native American ruins is less than an hour’s drive west of Durango.

Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde

Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde

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